The most common type of foreclosure property you'll encounter in your home search is a Real Estate Owned, or REO, property. REOs are properties that have been foreclosed and are now owned by the bank.

REOs may be vacant or in need of repair, but often they look and feel just like other homes for sale, and they're listed by a real estate Broker. Although they're typically sold as-is, it's not uncommon for an REO to be in move-in condition, but the process of buying an REO is different than other home purchases.

With the help of a qualified real estate Broker who knows the terrain of the REO market, your REO transaction will run more smoothly – and you'll likely get a great deal in the process.

RE/MAX agents lead the industry in distressed property training. Working with a Broker experienced in REO transactions will make the difference between a successful purchase and a frustrating, confusing experience.

REO Basics:

An REO property is one that has been foreclosed on and is now owned by the bank.

REO properties fall into two categories:

• Move-in condition: The home is in acceptable condition and not in need of rehabilitation. You could buy this property and move in quickly.
• Damaged: A damaged REO generally needs repairs and rehabilitation before you can move in. These types of REOs are attractive to investors and some buyers who aren't daunted by the work involved in rehabilitating a property. Often, you will get a bigger discount on damaged REO properties, but you have to consider refurbishing costs.

Where can you find REOs for sale?

Banks are eager to sell these properties and get them off their books. In most cases, they'll enlist a Broker to clean up the property and list it for sale in the MLS, which means you'll find these properties listed alongside homes in the neighborhood that are being sold traditionally.

If you're looking to buy an REO, it's important to work with a Broker who has experience with foreclosures. Many times the bank will insist on an "as-is" sale and an experienced Broker can help you work through your decision whether or not to move forward with the purchase based on the property's refurbishing needs.

Pros of Buying REOs:

• Often, you'll pay a below-market price for the property.
• The process is similar to a "normal" home purchase in that you can secure financing using a traditional mortgage. (Buying an REO property is nothing like buying a foreclosure property at auction with cash.)
• You'll be able to do inspections, purchase title insurance, and secure financing before completing the purchase.

Cons of Buying REOs:

• Many banks will require an "as-is" purchase and if there are problems or necessary repairs, paying for them is your responsibility.
• Banks rarely accept anything less than the asking price. They've already done a lot of research to come to a price that makes sense for them. (Keep in mind that if most sales in your market are selling above asking price anyway, this point isn't necessarily a con for buying an REO property.)
• The REO process can take longer than a regular home sale.

Short Sales - REOs vs. Short Sales: What's the Difference?

Here's something you might be wondering: What's the difference between an REO property and a short sale?

An REO property is one that has already gone through foreclosure and is currently owned by the bank, which is trying to sell it to a buyer.

A short sale is a real estate transaction that takes place when an owner owes more on the mortgage than the house is currently worth and the bank agrees to a sale for less than the full mortgage balance in order to avoid foreclosure. A property involved in a short sale is not bank owned.

The number of short sale transactions has increased in recent years and you're likely to run into homes like this on the market as you view properties. As with REOs, short sales can be complicated, so it's extremely important to find a real estate Broker who is experienced and specifically trained.

Finding the Best Agent

Working with a real estate Broker who is educated and experienced in REO transactions is an important step toward a successful purchase.

Ask any Broker you're potentially working with the following questions:

1. What kind of training or education have you had in REOs and foreclosures?
2. How many REO properties have you successfully helped clients purchase?
3. Were the REO properties you helped clients buy in the local area?

In addition, the same tips apply here for choosing a real estate Broker as those outlined in the Tips on Choosing and Working with a Realtor.

Do not venture into REO territory alone. Many RE/MAX agents are thoroughly trained in REOs and have a solid reputation for success. Choose your Broker wisely.

5 Buyer Mistakes to Avoid

Increase your chances of a successful REO purchase by avoiding these mistakes:

1. Hiring an inexperienced Broker: Work with a Realtor who is well versed in foreclosures in the area you're searching. Look for someone with advanced training and a great deal of experience in distressed properties.
2. Not knowing the law: Foreclosure laws vary by state. What your neighbor’s cousin did in Florida won't necessarily play the same in California. Consult a Realtor familiar with your state’s laws who has facilitated REO purchases in your area in particular.
3. Aiming too low: It's true that banks want foreclosures off their books, but that doesn't mean they'll accept a lowball offer. When making an offer, your Broker should justify it with comparable data. An extremely low offer can derail negotiations. An experienced Broker can coach you through the offer process.
4. Considering price only: There's more to an REO property than price. Some properties have extreme damage and the cost of repairs could easily eat up any discount you're getting. Have the property inspected and see it for yourself. Objectively assess its value based on physical condition, location, and your ability to improve the property.
5. Thinking short-term: Understand local market conditions – your Broker can explain them in detail – before jumping in. Consider not just what’s happening now, but also where the market may be headed as you define your goals for your REO purchase. It's common to buy an REO to live in long-term or to keep as an investment property for rent.

For Professional Service Every Time...

 Michael Lange
Broker/Realtor^®

    

 

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